The United States' top envoy on North Korean nuclear issues is set to visit South Korea this week and hold consultations with his South Korean counterpart, according to sources on Monday.

Joseph Yun, special representative for North Korea policy, will arrive in Seoul on Tuesday to attend events by the U.S. Embassy in Seoul, the diplomatic sources said.

During his visit, Yun plans to meet with Lee Do-hoon, South Korea's top negotiator on the North Korean nuclear issue.

Since its last ballistic missile launch Sept. 15, North Korea has not conducted any provocations, raising hopes for possible talks on the long-standing North Korean nuclear stalemate.

When they meet, it is believed the South Korean and U.S. officials will discuss how to capitalize on the hiatus in the North's military provocations.

U.S. President Donald Trump hinted last week that his administration is currently in contact with North Korea. Trump said during his visit to Seoul, "I do see certain movement, yes. But let's see what happens," after being asked about "direct talks" with North Korea.

Yun reportedly told the Council on Foreign Relations on Oct. 30 that if North Korea pauses nuclear and missile testing for around 60 days, it would be the signal indicating the need to resume direct talks with Pyongyang. (Yonhap)